Heavy rains unleashed a massive landslide in Kenya’s western Rift Valley, killing at least 21 people and leaving more than 30 missing. The disaster struck the hilly Chesongoch area in Elgeyo Marakwet County after days of relentless rainfall during the country’s short rain season.
Authorities confirmed that the mudslides destroyed over 1,000 homes, displacing hundreds of families and cutting off key roads. The government deployed helicopters to airlift 30 survivors with serious injuries to a hospital in Eldoret City.
Survivors Describe Chaos and Panic
Local residents said they heard a thunderous roar before the ground gave way. Many fled their homes in panic, running through the darkness as the mud tore through houses and fields. “We just ran in different directions,” one survivor said.
Rescue teams worked through Saturday despite the continuing downpour. Emergency workers and volunteers searched through thick mud and shattered debris to locate missing residents.
Government Responds to the Humanitarian Crisis
Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen said the government has launched full rescue and relief operations. Officials are assessing the damage and identifying safer areas for displaced families.
The Chesongoch region has suffered repeated disasters in the past. Landslides in 2010 and 2012 killed dozens, while floods in 2020 swept away an entire shopping centre. Authorities vowed to establish permanent resettlement zones to prevent future tragedies in the vulnerable highland region.
